The Makers - Ane Christensen
Ane Christensen was the first maker I approached to be part of this project. I went to visit her at her Hackney Studio back in August 2017. Ane describes herself as a Metalworker she makes stunningly beautiful geometric sculptural forms - pure, yet complex. I remember coming away from Ane's studio full of enthusiasm for my project 'The Value of Making' we had discussed tools and skills and kids and bricklaying and patience and perseverance. We talked about people who have making skills and what a vast and diverse group we are.
Ane's go to tool is a deep framed piercing saw, I was thrilled to observe the saws worn handle and the masking tape on the tightening screw, these details put you in the hands of the maker using the tool, loosening and tightening that screw over and over. I had thought that this was exactly what I was looking for. But on the wall above Ane’s work bench is a magnetic file rack over which are looped her facemask and earplugs, this composition proved irresistible.
The original intention for this project was to depict each maker through an individual tool, their favorite most important tool. But on visiting the makers I became so excited and inspired by the range of tools the makers use that some of the earlier pieces I made became much more ambitious.
Work in progress - Portrait of a Metal worker. Hand cut silk organza pieces
Work in progress - Portrait of a Metal worker
This work is part of my project 'The Value of Making' and will be on show at Collect Open 2018. My project is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Many thanks to Ane for having me. http://www.anechristensen.com
Collect 22-25 February 2018
Saatchi Gallery
Duke of York's HQ
King's Road
London SW3
